Charities: Midlands

This Birmingham-based firm's charities team has recently advised a major client on the restructuring of its operations, pioneering a new structure to accommodate its international growth. Sources say: "Our impression of the firm is that they are an incredibly supportive organisation and just very easy to work with." Key clients include the Church Mission Society, Mind and the Field Studies Council.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Romaine Thompson is a senior partner, with substantial experience advising the charity sector. Sources appreciate her real understanding of their work and objectives.

Shivaji Shiva recently joined the firm from Michelmores LLP in Exeter. He is highly regarded for the expertise he offers to charities, sponsors and trustees.

This firm brings cross-departmental expertise to bear in its advice to charities clients. The firm is able to advise clients on the full range of issues affecting charities on a daily basis. Key clients of the firm include Birmingham Children's Hospital, Cambridge University Press and Imperial College, London.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Sources say that team head Gary Barber "is helpful, approachable and constructive in his advice."

This charities team has recently been instructed by the Multiple Sclerosis Society regarding the establishment of a new charity and its registration with the Charity Commission and the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator. Sources are impressed with the firm's "swift response times" and "seamless client service." Other clients include Wolverhampton Grammar School, UCAS and the Royal Agricultural Society of England.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Sources say Penelope Byatt "answers all questions and is helpful and responsive."

This firm has recently given advice to Community Action MK on its infrastructure and governance. Clients say of Hewitsons that "the lawyers here are very good. They are specialists in what they do, and we've had no complaints about the service they provide."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Chris Knight is head of the charities team at Hewitsons and has expertise on charities' mergers, commercial transactions and governance.

Regional giant Martineau advises a wide range of charities. Sources are impressed by the breadth of experience of the charities team, saying: "The lawyers there are outstanding, they know their stuff and are approachable." Clients include Birmingham Anglican Diocese, the Foundation for Conductive Education and The Barber Institute of Fine Art. On 1st December 2011, Martineau merged with Sprecher Grier Halberstam to form SGH Martineau LLP.

KEY INDIVIDUALS David Allison is head of the charities team at the firm.